分成
fēnchéng · HSK 5
divide
➗ 分成 = 分 (divide) + 成 (become) → divide into parts
分 means split or divide; 成 means become or complete. Together 分成 literally reads as divide-into-becoming, meaning to split something into shares or parts — often used for splitting bonuses or profits.
分 — knife 刀 + eight 八 (split apart)
分 originally depicted a knife (刀) cutting something into two parts, shown by 八 above (which itself meant 'divide'). The core sense is 'to divide' or 'split', from which extended meanings like 'portion', 'minute', and 'part' developed. Pronounced fèn, it carries the sense of an allotted share.
成 — 戊 (halberd/weapon) + 丁 (nail/man)
Originally a pictograph of a halberd or axe-like weapon, suggesting the act of completing a task by force. Over time it shifted from 'to subdue' to the broader meaning 'to accomplish' or 'to become'. The 丁 element inside also hints at the chéng sound.